COMMENDEE 2025-26: Tom, a Supervising Officer at HMP/YOI Moorland, gets a Commendation for promoting wellbeing across the jail, and in particular for setting up a veterans’ group for prisoners and staff, and a peer-support group for prisoners living with cancer, including those facing a terminal diagnosis.

This nomination was drawn up by Chloe Fowkes – People Hub Manager, HMP/YOI Moorland; and signed off by Jennifer Willis – Governor, HMP/YOI Moorland. It followed an initial recommendation from Custodial Manager, Kim Kendall.

Introduction

I am nominating Tom Campbell for this year’s Butler Trust Awards, recognising his outstanding dedication to the wellbeing of both prisoners and staff at HMP YOI Moorland and his exceptional efforts in leading 2 prisoner & staff support group for the last 12 months. His leadership in establishing both a cancer support group and a veteran’s support group highlights his commitment to inclusivity, wellbeing, and community-building. Tom’s efforts have not only raised significant funds for charity but also fostered a culture of compassion and mutual respect among staff and prisoners, making a lasting impact on the prison environment.

Reasons for the nomination

Tom is a Supervising Officer who consistently displays professionalism, compassion, and leadership, going beyond his role to create meaningful connections and support networks that transform lives.

Tom’s implementation of both a cancer support group and a veteran’s support group is a testament to his unwavering commitment to inclusivity and community-building. His cancer support group provides a safe and empathetic space for individuals facing one of life’s greatest challenges, offering them comfort, encouragement, and solidarity whilst raising over £1800 For multiple charities including, Macmillan and Leeds Hospital- Rob Burrows centre through his fundraising events. Meanwhile, his veterans support group ensures that those who have served their country find companionship and understanding as they navigate life beyond military service.

Through his tireless efforts, Tom has broken down barriers between uniformed staff and prisoners, fostering mutual respect and support. His ability to uplift others through kindness, encouragement, and resourceful solutions has left a lasting impact on countless individuals. Whether it’s providing guidance, facilitating access to essential resources, or simply being a dependable presence, Tom’s dedication makes a profound difference.

Tom’s contributions to charity work and support groups have a profound impact on the culture and community at HMP YOI Moorland. His passion for creating a positive and supportive environment makes him an exceptionally deserving candidate for this recognition.

Support for the nomination

“Without the help and support that Mr Campbell has given me, the cancer support group would have never have been launched and supported me in the manner that is is today. I also feel that I would have given up on fighting cancer without his support that he gives me.”
Prisoner GA

“I don’t feel like I am fighting cancer alone the cancer group set up by Mr Campbell is like a second family.”
Prisoner MW

“As im writing this as the veterans rep his leadership in accepting the post as Veterans in Custody Facilitator has made all the veterans feel like they have a place in the prison community.”
Prisoner CN

“Mr Campbell with his support and encouragement gives me and others a great deal of confidence and positivity. He makes you feel he is always has your best interest at heart and no task is ever to big for him to help.”
Prisoner GL

“I really believe that without him being here for me, o don’t think I would have coped with the traumas ive had to deal with especially without the support of the cancer support group.”
Prisoner NC

“Tom Campbell recently established the Veterans Support Group, which includes both staff and prisoners. He recently organized an event to celebrate Armed Forces Day, which was very well received by all participants. The event provided an excellent opportunity for members of the Armed Forces community to come together and share their experiences.
Since Tom took on the role of supporting veterans, this was the first time I had been included in such events. He showed great care by taking the time to find and individually invite all staff members, ensuring everyone felt personally welcomed.”
Chloe Fowkes, People Hub Manager

Sign off

The impact of the work that Tom is undertaking is enormous. In an environment where ‘hope’ is so vitally important, the cancer support group in particular gives people comfort at arguably one of the most difficult times in their lives, especially for those with a terminal diagnosis. The humanity in which this work, both for those with cancer, and veterans is undertaken, and the ability to bring our prison community together and provide back to charities is humbling and innovative. I do not hesitate to support and recommend this nomination for Butler Trust.

Jennifer Willis, Governor, HMP Moorland